9 Effective Ways to Save Gasoline

Follow the manufacturer's recommendation on vehicle maintenance. They create a user's guide for a reason -- it will help you get the most out of your vehicle.

2. Use the Proper Oil

Energy conserving motor oil may improve your vehicle's gas mileage by 1 - 2 percent.

3. Pump Lower-Octane Gas

Purchase the lowest octane of gasoline required for your vehicle. If not required, buying premium gasoline is a waste of money. Your vehicle's owner's manual should indicate which grade of fuel is optimal for your vehicle.

4. Don't Top Off Your Tank

When you top off your tank, that additional gasoline will slop around or seep out. Why waste money on something you're NOT going to use? When it appears that your tank is full, stop pumping!

5. Fasten Your Gas Cap

Some fuel may evaporate if your gas tank isn't properly sealed. According to Car Care Council, 147-million gallons of gasoline evaporate each year because of damaged, loose, or missing gas caps.

6. Find Shade

The summer heat can actually cost you fuel! If your car gets too warm, some of your fuel may evaporate. Try to find some shade when you part... a tree, building or ideally, a cooled garage. Windshield shades can also help.

7. Maintain Your Tires

Under inflated tires not only wear down more quickly, they can also lower your car's gas mileage. The under inflated tires cause more resistance, slowing your vehicle down and causing the engine to work harder.

8. Keep a Clean Air Filter

Similar to your tires -- the more wear on your air filter will cause your engine to work harder. When more air enters your engine, it will perform better. Dirt, dust and other particles cover your filter over time and force the engine to work harder.

9. Tune Your Engine

Gas mileage can be boosted roughly 4 percent by fixing a vehicle that is out of tune or failed an emissions test. Misfiring spark plugs can also reduce fuel efficiency -- as much as 30 percent!